The first possible cause of anemia is related to diet. For instance, iron-deficiency anemia, the most common form of anemia among WIC clients, can come from not eating enough iron-rich foods, like beef or chicken, beans and lentils.

Other dietary causes of anemia can also result from inadequate intake of vitamins, such as folic acid and vitamin B12. These dietary deficiencies can lead to folic acid-deficiency anemia and vitamin B12-deficiency anemia, which are both needed for healthy red blood cell production, too.